Buying the right bird cage can be tough. I’ve been there—scrolling through endless options, confused by size charts, prices, and reviews. After raising budgies and now living with a chatty African Grey, I’ve tested many cages. Some were perfect. Some were a waste.
Here’s what I wish I had from the start: a simple, clear guide to help choose the best bird cage based on budget and bird size.
Why the Right Cage Matters
A bird’s cage is more than a home. It’s their playground, sleep space, and safe zone. Too small, and they feel cramped. Too big with poor setup, and they feel lost. Wrong bar spacing? That’s an injury waiting to happen.
So let’s avoid mistakes. I’ve broken this list into 5 solid cage choices—from budget-friendly to premium, and included exact size guides for different species.
Budget Pick Under $50: Yaheetech Open Top Travel Cage (Great for Budgies, Lovebirds)
If you’re tight on money or need a travel cage, this one works well. I use it for my budgies when I visit my parents.
Key Points:
- Size: 18” x 14” x 21”
- Bar spacing: 0.4″
- Good for: Budgies, finches, canaries
Why I Like It:
- Lightweight and easy to clean
- Open-top perch for training or play
- Slide-out tray makes cleaning fast
Drawbacks:
- Not big enough for more than 1–2 birds
- Not ideal for permanent housing
Image Prompt: “Small open-top bird cage on a tabletop with a budgie perched happily –ar 16:9”
Best Mid-Range Cage Under $150: Prevue Hendryx Flight Cage (Best for Small Birds)
I kept this cage for my pair of lovebirds. It’s great for letting them fly inside the cage.
Key Points:
- Size: 31” x 20” x 53”
- Bar spacing: 0.5″
- Good for: Budgies, lovebirds, cockatiels
Why I Like It:
- Lots of horizontal space for wing stretching
- Comes with rolling stand and shelf
- Easy assembly
Drawbacks:
- Doors could be sturdier
- Not ideal for large birds
Image Prompt: “Spacious flight cage with colorful lovebirds playing inside –ar 16:9”
Best Value for Medium Birds: ZENY Wrought Iron Cage (Affordable & Durable)
This is the one my cockatiel lives in. Strong, roomy, and under $200.
Key Points:
- Size: 24” x 22” x 37” (63” with stand)
- Bar spacing: 0.5”
- Good for: Cockatiels, conures, parrotlets
Why I Like It:
- Large doors and feeder trays
- Heavy base with wheels
- Sturdy and easy to clean
Drawbacks:
- Paint can chip with rough scrubbing
- Needs better locks if you have a clever bird
Image Prompt: “Medium-size iron bird cage with a cockatiel inside and toys hanging –ar 16:9”
Top Pick for Large Birds: KING’S CAGES 306 (Safe for Parrots & Greys)
This one is pricey but worth it for large birds. I use it for my African Grey.
Key Points:
- Size: 36” x 28” x 66”
- Bar spacing: 1”
- Good for: African Greys, Amazons, small macaws
Why I Like It:
- Thick bars and solid construction
- Top play area with ladder and food bowls
- Bird-proof door locks
Drawbacks:
- Heavy and hard to move
- On the expensive side
Image Prompt: “Large bird cage with African Grey playing on top ladder perch –ar 16:9”
Best Cage for Macaws & Multi-Bird Homes: A&E Cage Company 6436
This cage is massive. I helped a friend set this up for two macaws.
Key Points:
- Size: 64” x 32” x 74”
- Bar spacing: 1.25”
- Good for: Macaws, cockatoos, multiple large birds
Why I Like It:
- Heavy-duty build
- Comes with seed guards and strong locks
- Room for lots of toys and perches
Drawbacks:
- Needs a large space
- High cost and shipping
Image Prompt: “Double macaw cage setup with branches, swings, and natural perches –ar 16:9”
Cage Size Guide by Bird Type
| Bird Type | Min. Cage Size (L x W x H) | Bar Spacing |
| Budgie | 18″ x 18″ x 18″ | 0.4″ |
| Lovebird | 20″ x 20″ x 24″ | 0.5″ |
| Cockatiel | 24″ x 24″ x 30″ | 0.5″ |
| Conure | 24″ x 24″ x 36″ | 0.5″-0.6″ |
| African Grey | 36″ x 28″ x 50″ | 0.75″-1″ |
| Macaw | 48″ x 36″ x 60″ | 1″-1.5″ |
What to Look For in Any Bird Cage
- Strong bars with safe spacing
- Slide-out tray for easy cleaning
- Non-toxic paint
- Secure door locks
- Perch options and space for toys
- Castor wheels for large cages
Avoid cages with:
- Flimsy plastic trays
- Rusty hinges or old coatings
- Small doors that make access hard
FAQ: Choosing the Right Bird Cage
Q1: Can I use a big cage for a small bird? Yes, if the bar spacing is right. Too wide can trap small heads.
Q2: Are tall cages better than wide ones? No. Birds fly side to side, not up and down. Go wider.
Q3: How often should I clean the cage? Daily for droppings. Weekly deep clean for perches, toys, and trays.
Q4: Do all birds need a play top? No. But active birds like cockatiels and parrots enjoy them.
Q5: Should I buy a used bird cage? Only if it’s rust-free, cleaned with bird-safe disinfectant, and the bar spacing works.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need the most expensive cage. You need the right cage. One that fits your bird, your space, and your budget. I’ve wasted money on cages I had to return. Learn from me. Use this guide, match your bird’s size, and invest in something that works.
A happy bird starts with a safe, roomy, and cozy home.
